Newton P.D. issues statement regarding Saturday incident at Walmart

Casterlines wanted for questioning in Nebraska homicide case

Andrew James Casterline, 21, and Shelley Lynn Casterline, 41, both of Nashville,
Tenn., were arrested Saturday following an alleged robbery in the Walmart parking
lot. The two are wanted for questioning by the Nebraska State Patrol for a homicide
that occurred in that state.

By Bob Eschliman
Daily News Editor

This morning, the Newton Police Department issued a statement regarding the arrest Saturday evening of two people wanted in connection with a murder investigation in Nebraska.

According to Lt. Bill Henninger, officers were called to the Newton Walmart at 5:30 p.m. Saturday to investigate the theft of a purse from a patron in the store's parking lot. Upon arrival, officers met with the alleged victims.

"The victims said the male suspect approached them asking for directions and while giving the suspect directions he grabbed her purse," Henninger said. "The victim, upon trying to retrieve the purse was met by a female who brandished a knife."

The suspects, identified as Andrew James Casterline, 23, and Shelley Lynn Casterline, 41, both of Nashville, Tenn., reportedly fled the scene in a stolen vehicle. They were later apprehended by the Iowa State Patrol on Interstate Highway 80 east of Newton.

They remain in the Jasper County Jail, each facing charges of first-degree robbery, a Class B felony. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 14, in the case.

"The stolen vehicle is being investigated by the Iowa State Patrol," Henninger said. "Both suspects were wanted for questioning regarding a homicide in Nebraska, which is being investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol."